Joshua 17:18
But the mountain shall be thine; for it is a wood, and thou shalt cut it down: and the outgoings of it shall be thine: for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots, and though they be strong.
Joshua 17:18 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Judges, the significance lies in the promise made to the Israelites by God. The verse speaks of the conquest of the Canaanites by the Israelites, despite the Canaanites having iron chariots and being a strong enemy. The mountain mentioned in the verse symbolizes not just physical territory, but also the challenges and obstacles that the Israelites faced in claiming their promised land. By telling the Israelites that the mountain shall be theirs to cut down and to drive out the Canaanites, God is assuring them of victory and success in their endeavors. This verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and power, always prevailing even against seemingly insurmountable odds. It is a message of hope, strength, and encouragement for believers facing their own battles and difficulties in life, reminding them to trust in God and His promises.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it represents the assurance of victory and land acquisition promised by God to the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. The metaphor of the mountain being described as a wood that the Israelites will cut down can be seen as symbolic of the challenges and obstacles that the people will face in driving out the Canaanites. However, the promise that the outgoings of the mountain will be theirs shows that despite the Canaanites possessing iron chariots and being strong, God will grant the Israelites success in their conquest. This verse highlights the importance of relying on God's strength and guidance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, demonstrating that with faith and obedience, God's promises will be fulfilled.
Joshua 17:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
but the hill-country shall be thine; for though it is a forest, thou shalt cut it down, and the goings out thereof shall be thine; for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have chariots of iron, and though they are strong.
World English Bible
but the hill country shall be yours. Although it is a forest, you shall cut it down, and it’s farthest extent shall be yours; for you shall drive out the Canaanites, though they have chariots of iron, and though they are strong.”
Douay-Rheims
But thou shalt pass to the mountain, and shalt cut down the wood, and make thyself room to dwell in: and mayst proceed farther, when thou hast destroyed the Chanaanites, who as thou sayest have iron chariots, and are very strong.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore the mountaine shall be thine: for it is a wood, and thou shalt cut it downe: and the endes of it shall be thine, and thou shalt cast out the Canaanites, though they haue yron charets, and though they be strong.